by University of Manchester
edited by Sadie Harley, reviewed by Robert Egan
scientific editor
associate editor
Credit: University of Manchester
Scientists have found a way to make perovskite solar cells not only highly efficient but also remarkably stable, addressing one of the main challenges holding the technology back from widespread use.
Perovskite has long been hailed as a game-changer for the next generation of solar power. However, advances in material design are still needed to boost the efficiency and durability of solar panels that convert sunlight into electricity.
Led by Professor Thomas Anthopoulos from The University of Manchester, the research team achieved this by fine-tuning the molecules that coat the perovskite surfaces. They utilized specially designed small molecules, known as amidinium ligands, which act like a molecular “glue” to hold the perovskite structure together.
The study, published in the journal Science, focuses on understanding how the chemical structure of the amidinium ligand controls the formation of the low-dimensional perovskite phase atop the conventional three-dimensional perovskite.
These highly ordered layers form a smooth, stable protective layer that prevents tiny defects from forming, allowing electrical charges to flow more efficiently and preventing the devices from degrading under heat or light.
Using this approach, the team developed solar cells with a power conversion efficiency of 25.4%, while maintaining over 95% of performance after 1,100 hours of continuous operation at 85°C under full sunlight.
Professor Anthopoulos said, “Perovskite solar cells are seen as a cheaper, lightweight and flexible alternative to traditional silicon panels, but they have faced challenges with long-term stability. Current state-of-the-art perovskite materials are known to be unstable under heat or light, causing the cells to degrade faster.
“The amidinium ligands we’ve developed, and the new knowledge gained, allow the controlled growth of high-quality, stable perovskite layers. This could overcome one of the last major hurdles facing perovskite solar cell technology and ensure it lasts long enough for large-scale deployment.”
More information: Xiaoming Chang et al, Multivalent ligands regulate dimensional engineering for inverted perovskite solar modules, Science (2026). DOI: 10.1126/science.aea0656
Journal information: Science
Provided by University of Manchester
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Perovskite solar cells coated with amidinium ligands achieve a power conversion efficiency of 25.4% and retain over 95% of their performance after 1,100 hours at 85°C. The molecular coating forms stable, defect-resistant layers, significantly enhancing both efficiency and thermal stability, addressing key barriers to the technology’s practical deployment.
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Perovskite solar cells maintain 95% of power conversion efficiency after 1,100 hours at 85°C with new molecular coating
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